A pioneering IT services firm in Nottingham has unveiled an innovative professional development programme. This initiative blends structured learning with flexibility, tailored to individual roles within the company.
The programme offers entry-level courses followed by three progressive levels – bronze, silver, and gold. Each level allows employees to select qualifications according to their interests, with successful completion resulting in salary increments and access to further learning.
Structured yet Flexible Professional Development
The Nottingham-based IT firm has relaunched its in-house learning academy, offering a mix of structured and flexible learning opportunities. The programme is designed to meet the specific needs of various roles within the company, ensuring that each employee receives the most relevant training.
After completing the entry-level training for their specific job role, employees can progress through three dedicated learning levels: bronze, silver, and gold. Each level requires the completion of appropriate qualifications, all tailored to the individual’s career interests and goals.
Tailored Learning Paths
At each learning level, employees have the freedom to choose the qualifications they wish to pursue. This tailored approach allows them to align their training with their personal and professional interests.
Employees are rewarded with an annual salary increase upon completing each level, motivating them to continue their professional development. This incentive ensures continuous growth and skill enhancement.
Specialised Academies
Upon reaching the bronze level, employees can select their preferred academy to further specialise in areas such as infrastructure, professional services, or cyber security.
Emma Maraio, head of professional development, stated, “The academy offers a supportive environment for applied, professional development and lifelong learning.”
This choice allows employees to focus on areas they are passionate about, thereby enhancing job satisfaction and expertise.
Holistic Development
The company recognises the importance of both technical skills and softer people-skills. Therefore, the programme includes opportunities for one-on-one mentorship, leadership programmes, and role-play based training.
Maraio added, “We recognise that the practical and the personal interact, and the importance of both, in all of our roles here.”
By integrating these elements, the company ensures that its staff are not only technically proficient but also effective communicators and leaders.
Investment in Learning
The firm fully funds all learning and examination costs to further support their employees’ development. They have also made LinkedIn Learning accessible to all employees.
LinkedIn Learning is an online learning platform that can be accessed remotely, providing employees with both in-depth instruction and quick microlearning opportunities. This flexibility enhances the overall learning experience.
Recognised Qualifications and Salary Increases
All courses offered through the academy lead to industry-recognised qualifications. Employees can potentially add up to £4,500 to their annual salary by progressing through the programme.
This substantial financial incentive underscores the company’s commitment to fostering a culture of continuous learning and development.
Conclusion
This comprehensive and flexible upskilling approach stands as a model for other firms. By prioritising tailored learning paths and providing substantial incentives, the firm ensures both employee satisfaction and organisational growth.
The IT firm’s innovative approach to employee development highlights the importance of continuous learning and personal growth in the workplace.
The structured yet flexible programme not only enhances individual skills but also contributes to overall company success. The supportive environment and substantial incentives make this a standout initiative in professional development.
